The Crofts were come to Kellynch

The Crofts too possession with true naval alertness, and were to be visited.

“It was you, and not your sister, I find, that my brother had the pleasure of being acquainted with, when he was in this country.”

“Perhaps you may not have heard that he is married.”

“We are expecting a brother of Mrs Croft’s here soon: I dare say you know him by name.”

So, which is worse? The shock of hearing the word “married” connected to the man you love? Or that he’s coming and will see you in all your faded glory? Both are bad. It all starts with the momentary shock and just escalates.